Visiting Portsmouth for business

Known for its rich naval history and being home to a number of ingenious engineers, Portsmouth is a city that’s bursting with opportunity when it comes to business innovation. Whether your business trip takes you to the south coast for networking purposes or to touch base with current clients, there’s no doubt that Portsmouth is the perfect spot for combining business with pleasure.

As any entrepreneur will know, the long hours away from home can make business trips a tiring affair. From the hectic journey to the busy days packed with client meetings and conferences, it’s vital that you catch up on some hard-earned rest during your stay. In this post, we’re bringing everything you’ll need to know for your business trip to Portsmouth. From planning your journey to making the most of the amenities in the area, this guide from Owners Direct will help you make the most of your trip.

Travelling to Portsmouth

Portsmouth is certainly easily accessible, being just a 2-hour drive from London’s centre via the A3. The city also has two train stations - meaning travelling into the area by rail couldn’t be more convenient. Portsmouth & Southsea railway station is situated in the city centre, located on the direct railway line between London Waterloo and Portsmouth Harbour. Portsmouth Harbour railway station can be found beside the well-known Gunwharf Quays in the city’s harbour, and houses the bus interchange, as well as ferry services to the Isle of Wight and Gosport.

For anyone travelling by air, Southampton Airport (SOU/EGHI) is just 22 miles from Portsmouth centre. With both international and domestic flights available, travelling to Portsmouth by air is easy. Plus, with the airport housing its own train station, Portsmouth-bound passengers have the option to make their transfer by rail or jump in a taxi.

Where to stay

When it comes to accommodation, finding comfortable, convenient places to stay in Portsmouth couldn’t be easier. Business travel can be tiring and, whether you’re meeting with a potential lead or delivering a talk at a local venue, it’s vital that you get a good night’s sleep. So, why not escape from the hustle and bustle that comes with city centre hotel rooms and enjoy peace and tranquillity after a busy day of networking?

From sleeping in style in the luxurious Lipstick Skyscraper - the tallest residential building on the south coast - to entertaining clients amidst wonderful sea views of the Isle of Wight, the nearby accommodation options are sure to make your business trip a success.

Where to wine and dine

Brasserie Blanc
This upscale brasserie serves some of the best French dishes in the city - and it’s no surprise, when you consider that the menu has been devised by Raymond Blanc himself. Whether you’re celebrating a deal with colleagues or enjoying the delectable appetisers with a potential client, Brasserie Blanc is the perfect place to combine business with pleasure

Pie and Vinyl
Travelling with work can often mean you end up missing the comfort of a home-cooked meal. For something that truly hits the spot, a trip to this unique café is a must. Serving up local produce in each of their pies, an evening at the Pie and Vinyl is sure to give you a moreish taste of this vibrant city.

Brewhouse & Kitchen
Is there anything better than enjoying a locally brewed pint in a 100-year-old Tudor-style building? Enjoy the gorgeous authentic decor in Portsmouth’s Brewhouse & Kitchen and immerse yourself in the area’s wealth of heritage, as you enjoy one of the amazing creations from the on-site microbrewery.

Conference and meeting venues

Lakeside North Harbour
For a venue that really packs a punch, make sure you arrange your upcoming conference at the south coast’s finest business destination. With meeting rooms available for 4 - 50 people and an auditorium with a 200-person capacity, Lakeside North Harbour provides all the facilities you’ll need for a triumphant business meeting.

Portsmouth Guildhall
Whether you’re looking for corporate hospitality during a show, or searching for a stunning venue in the centre of the city, Portsmouth Guildhall has it all. With 9 meeting rooms, a grand auditorium that boasts 2,009 seats and a wealth of rich history, this iconic building is sure to wow your guests.

Action Stations
In a city that’s famed for its maritime history, where better to do business than in a magnificent converted boathouse? Action Stations is a truly unique and versatile venue, making it the perfect setting for your corporate event. Boasting a state-of-the art auditorium, meeting room and spacious break out area, this magnificent boathouse is the perfect location for making an impact.

Mixing business with pleasure is a must when travelling for work - and from meeting clients in luxurious local restaurants to relaxing after a productive day in a stylish home from home, making the most of all that Portsmouth has to offer is the key to a successful business trip.